The Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL) is the first event in the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), designed to assess a soldier’s total-body strength, particularly targeting the lower body and core. This event uses a hex bar (also known as a trap bar or hexagon bar) to perform the 3-rep max deadlift, emphasizing safety, proper form, and raw power output.
Purpose of the MDL Event
The MDL is a muscular strength test that simulates common combat tasks such as lifting ammunition boxes, dragging wounded soldiers, or loading heavy equipment. It also aids in evaluating a soldier’s readiness for real-world physical demands, as outlined in AR 670-1 and Army Physical Readiness Training (PRT) guidelines.
Starting Position & Movement Phases
- Starting Position: Soldier stands inside the hex bar with feet shoulder-width apart, gripping the handles firmly.
- Upward Movement Phase: Engage core and glutes, drive through the heels, and lift the bar until fully standing.
- Downward Movement Phase: Lower the bar with control back to the ground, maintaining a neutral spine throughout.
This lift mimics movements like bilateral hip thrusts and staggered stance pulls, building strength across multiple muscle groups including the glutes, hamstrings, quads, and lower back.
MDL Execution Standards
- Soldiers must perform three consecutive deadlifts with proper form.
- Weights increase with each rep during testing.
- Form is strictly judged — poor posture, early hip rise, or back rounding leads to disqualification.
The event is conducted in standard Army PRT uniforms, and all protocols follow COVID safety guidelines (e.g., HPCON Bravo or Charlie) during official testing environments.
Training Benefits & Physiological Gains
Consistent MDL training leads to:
- Neuromuscular adaptation
- Muscle hypertrophy
- Connective tissue strengthening
- Metabolic improvements
These adaptations make the MDL one of the most effective strength & conditioning movements in both tactical and athletic populations — recognized by programs like the Army-Baylor Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, Fort Sam Houston AWC, and JBSA Army Wellness Center.
Relation to Other ACFT Events
While the MDL targets strength, it complements endurance-based tests like the Two-Mile Run, and agility-focused movements like the Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC). Together, they provide a holistic picture of a soldier’s combat readiness.
Bonus Tips for MDL Success
- Incorporate trap-bar deadlifts into your weekly strength program.
- Pair MDL training with core activation drills and forward lunges to build posterior chain strength.
- Use a progressive overload approach to gradually increase your 3-rep max safely.
Whether you’re training at Ft. Bragg, SUNY Cortland, or Syracuse University, this event is essential to achieving higher ACFT scores and preparing for field operations.